Disaster Preparedness Tips for Twin Cities Businesses
By Admin | July 17, 2025
At Ungerman, we’ve spent over 40 years helping Minnesota businesses recover after fire, water, and storm damage. And while we’re proud of the restoration services we provide, we believe the best disaster is the one that never happens. That’s why proactive preparedness is key to protecting your property, people, and operations.
Why Preparedness Matters
Minnesota’s climate can be unpredictable. From polar vortex cold snaps to heavy spring rains. Preparing your facility now means fewer surprises and faster recovery later. Here’s what we recommend as construction professionals who have seen it all.
1. Understand Your Home or Building’s Vulnerabilities
Different seasons bring different risks. A facility walkthrough with your maintenance or restoration team can help identify key weak spots. Be on the lookout for:
- Exposed or aging pipes in basements and crawlspaces — vulnerable to freezing and bursting.
- Roof sections prone to ice dams, especially where insulation and ventilation are inadequate.
- Improperly sealed windows or doorways, which can let in water during wind-driven rain.
- HVAC systems, which can rapidly circulate smoke or moisture throughout the building.
Tip: Schedule seasonal inspections to proactively catch issues.
Read more about Ice Dams & Roof Damage
2. Create a Business Emergency Response Plan
In an emergency, clarity saves time. Your employees should be trained on immediate next steps, including:
- Emergency contact lists (fire, police, Ungerman’s 24/7 line: 612-825-2800)
- Locations of water, gas, and electrical shutoffs
- Evacuation maps and fire extinguisher stations
- Whom to contact for professional restoration (that’s us!)
3. Build Relationships Before You Need Them
Having established connections with a trusted insurance restoration contractor, plumber, electrician, and insurance provider can cut hours, even days, off your recovery time.
At Ungerman, we often work directly with insurers, helping streamline the claim and restoration process so business owners can focus on what matters most: getting back to business.
4. Maintain Thorough Documentation
Accurate records speed up insurance claims and help identify losses. Here’s what to keep up to date:
- Photos of each room and equipment
- A digital inventory of assets and serial numbers
- Cloud backups of critical documents and client files
5. Schedule Regular Preventive Maintenance
A little upkeep goes a long way. Addressing small issues today can prevent major damage tomorrow:
- Annual HVAC inspections
- Roof assessments in spring and fall
- Prompt repairs for leaks, cracks, and water stains
- Gutter and drainage system checks
Need help identifying problem areas? We offer free inspections.
Schedule an Assessment with Ungerman
6. Review Your Insurance Coverage Annually
Disaster often brings unexpected costs. Make sure your current policy reflects your building’s true value, recent upgrades, and the cost of full restoration.
Don’t wait until after the damage — ask your agent now what’s covered, and what isn’t.
Understanding Commercial Property Insurance
Need Help Now?
When disaster does strike, Ungerman’s certified restoration team is available 24/7 for immediate response. With decades of experience in fire, water, and storm damage, we’re ready to help your business recover fast, working directly with your insurance to reduce downtime.
Learn more about our Emergency Response Services
Stay Prepared. Stay Protected.
The time to prepare is before disaster hits. With the right plan — and the right partners — you can reduce the impact and bounce back faster. Questions or want a walkthrough? We’re just a call away.
Contact Us or Call 612-615-7428